Monash University Malaysia and an American life sciences company have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to build an integrated biology centre in Malaysia. As part of the partnership agreement, the company and Monash University Malaysia will combine their strengths in analytical techniques and biomedical knowledge to accelerate research and development (R&D) in the field of science over the next three years.
These R&D environments focused on providing analytical expertise for both small and large molecules will improve the scientific knowledge on developing better anti-venom and other applied biology research for publications and potential clinical usage.
The integrated laboratory will strengthen the two parties’ portfolios in building local research capabilities, hosting scientists across Malaysia and providing researchers with more significant outcomes in support of their research work.
The centre consists of one lab with state-of-the-art instruments from the company such as a gas-chromatography mass spectrometer (GCMS), liquid-chromatography mass spectrometer (LCMS), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) machine and a supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC) machine. Examples of ongoing research projects that tie in with the facility include researching the efficacy of snake venom for cancer treatment, research on brain cancer or glioblastoma and research on antivenom development.
The Deputy Head of School (Research), Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia stated that the MoU sets another significant milestone for more excellent research and industrial collaboration between Monash University Malaysia and the company. It also reaffirms their partnership and collaboration, which spans more than ten years, he said during the MoU signing ceremony. He added that the firm’s Integrated Biology facility aims to support the biomedical, pharmaceutical, and clinical research conducted at Monash Malaysia.
Commenting on the partnership, the Malaysia General Manager of the company noted that the firm is pleased to expand its presence and deepen its investment in Malaysia with this state-of-the-art centre which will help us drive innovations to enhance the quality of life.
Over the last 20 years in Malaysia, the company has expanded into a 200,000 sq. ft facility in Penang with more than 630 skilled scientists, engineers, and employees to support scientific research locally, regionally, and globally. The company has made significant contributions with the ongoing collaborations with the government, academia and industry, positioning Malaysia as a beacon of innovation, enabling the technologies of tomorrow.
The Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences has over 15 years of experience delivering outstanding medical, psychology and health sciences education. As part of a research university with an emphasis on research-led teaching, medical research is a vital component of the school’s activity.
Commenting on the collaboration, Professor Matthew Nicholson, President and Pro Vice-Chancellor of Monash University Malaysia stated that the University is deeply committed to the partnership with Agilent as the values shared by both parties reflect the University’s strategic plan.
He noted that Impact 2030 charts a path for how the University will actively contribute to addressing the global challenges of the current age, including that of creating and maintaining thriving communities. Importantly, the University will strive to be excellent, international, enterprising, and inclusive. These commitments, especially to be excellent and enterprising, are also values shared by the company, he said, which are evident in this agreement to establish an integrated biology centre here in the heart of ASEAN.
